What Are the Benefits of Collegiate Esports? – Jenny and Schary (ERNC25) скачать в хорошем качестве

What Are the Benefits of Collegiate Esports? – Jenny and Schary (ERNC25)

This presentation by Seth E. Jenny from Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania and David P. Schary from Winthrop University investigates the institutional benefits of collegiate esports using one of the largest empirical datasets in esports research to date. Responding to growing claims that universities adopt esports to support recruitment, retention, and student development, the study critically examines whether these benefits are supported by evidence rather than assumption. Using a mixed method, cross sectional exploratory design, the researchers collected survey data from esports directors, esports staff, and esports players across 12 VOICE affiliated universities, alongside institutional data drawn from official university records and national education statistics. Quantitative analysis examined relationships between collegiate esports participation and variables such as student diversity, academics, recruitment, retention, graduation, and skill development. Qualitative open response data were analyzed using iterative coding procedures to capture participant perceptions of esports value and impact. The findings present a mixed picture. Results suggest potential benefits related to student engagement, skill development, and certain recruitment outcomes, while also highlighting areas of concern and variables that showed little or no relationship to esports participation. Importantly, the study challenges overly optimistic narratives by demonstrating where esports does and does not appear to deliver measurable institutional value. As the largest collegiate esports study conducted so far, this research provides a critical evidence base for higher education leaders, program directors, and policymakers seeking to understand what esports can realistically contribute to universities. The authors emphasize the importance of data driven decision making as esports continues to expand within higher education environments. Keywords: benefits of esports, collegiate esports, transferable skills, esports in education, recruitment, retention About the ERN Conference 2025: The Esports Research Network Conference 2025 took place online from November 12–14, 2025 as a continuous, 72-hour global livestream. Guided by the theme “Future Realities: Esports as a Global Lab,” the event explored how esports serves as a living laboratory for understanding digital transformation across education, media, technology, and society. This innovative digital-first format followed the sun across three regional hubs, Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania & Michigan State University (Americas), Staffordshire University (EMEA), and UNSW Sydney (Asia-Pacific), creating a nonstop, interconnected academic experience available to participants worldwide. This ambitious production was made possible through the support of Corsair for Business, whose Elgato technology powered high-quality broadcasting and seamless livestreaming across all three hubs. ERNC25 continues the network’s mission to unite scholars, practitioners, and students while fostering open, global collaboration in esports research. Full abstracts for all presentations can be viewed in the official Book of Abstracts at: https://book.esportsresearch.net Website: https://esportsresearch.net